Quick Answer
To keep your leggings and bodysuits in top shape, wash them in cold water on a gentle cycle with like colors, then air dry flat. Avoid fabric softeners and high heat, which break down stretch fibers over time.
Why Care Routine Matters
Leggings and bodysuits are made with stretchy synthetic fabrics that need a little extra attention. Washing them properly prevents pilling, fading, and loss of elasticity, so they keep their fit and support through many workouts.
Before You Wash: Check the Label
Always check the care label on your garment. It tells you the recommended water temperature and drying method. When in doubt, cold water and air drying are the safest choices for most activewear.
Step-by-Step Care Routine
- Turn garments inside out: This protects the outer surface from friction and reduces pilling. It also helps preserve any bonded details like waistbands. Checkpoint: Make sure all zippers are closed to avoid snags.
- Use cold water and a gentle cycle: Cold water prevents color fading and maintains fiber elasticity. Choose a gentle or delicate cycle to minimize agitation. Mistake to avoid: Hot water can break down spandex, so stick with cold.
- Skip fabric softener: Fabric softeners coat synthetic fibers and can reduce moisture-wicking and stretch. Use a mild detergent instead. Checkpoint: If you need softness, add a little white vinegar to the rinse cycle.
- Air dry flat: Lay garments flat on a towel to dry, away from direct sunlight. Avoid the dryer, which can damage elastic and cause shrinkage. Mistake to avoid: Never wring out leggings or bodysuits—gently press out excess water.
- Store properly: Fold leggings and bodysuits rather than hanging them to prevent stretching at the shoulders or waistband. Keep them in a cool, dry place. Checkpoint: Avoid folding over the waistband repeatedly—it can cause creases that weaken the fabric.
Products That Benefit from Proper Care
- Amber Sport Thong: A smooth, stretchy thong with a bonded waistband that stays put no matter how many squats you do. To keep that bonded waistband from losing its grip, wash in cold water and skip the dryer—heat can break down the bond over time.
- Café Tina Open Back Unitard: The Café Tina Open Back Unitard offers a sleek, ultra-flattering silhouette for your active wardrobe, with a square neckline and open back design. The open back and square neckline rely on the fabric's stretch to hold their shape; gentle washing and air drying help maintain that structured fit.
- Java Sport Brief: The Java Sport Brief is a classic-rise brief designed to stay put while you work out, offering reliable coverage and a secure fit. Keeping the elastic in good condition with cold water and low heat preserves the secure fit so it doesn't stretch out prematurely.
